Building an eDNA-based Stream Health index for California

In 2026 CALeDNA is building the first statewide eDNA Stream Health Index for California! This year we will collect 2,600 water samples from a target of 400 stream locations statewide to build and validate the new index. And we need the people who know those streams!

The project will involve collaboration among several research and science organizations, including UC Santa Cruz’s CALeDNA program, eDNA Explorer, the Southern California Coastal Water Research Project (SCCWRP), and multiple state partners.

If you've ever worked with us before - thank you.

And if you're new — welcome. This is what collaborative science looks like.

Training is simple. Equipment is provided. Your stream matters.

If you are apart of an organization or group that is sampling streams this season and can collect a few additional samples (target: 6 per stream); please propose streams sites on the map below and we'll be in touch! Every sample we collect becomes part of something California has never had before.

Would you like to join a field crew to collect? Volunteer here and We’ll be in touch!